Seeking advice about a car accident situation. I was recently involved in an accident where a woman ran a red light and hit my car, which is now a total loss. She is claiming that I was at fault, but the damage clearly shows that she caused the crash.
Today, I received a call from her insurance company asking for a brief overview of the incident. They informed me that she stopped paying her insurance back in December, which has led to my claim being declined.
I’m feeling stuck and uncertain about what to do next. I still have an outstanding loan of $23,000 on the car. Any guidance would be appreciated!
I’m really sorry to hear about your accident and the situation with the insurance. It sounds incredibly frustrating. Here are a few steps you might consider taking:
Document Everything: Make sure to keep all records related to the accident, including photos of the damage, the police report, any witness statements, and notes from your conversations with the insurance company.
Contact Your Insurance: If you haven’t already, reach out to your own insurance provider, even if you believe the other driver was at fault. They may be able to help you navigate the situation or assist with a claim under your own policy, potentially covering the damages through uninsured motorist coverage if available.
Seek Legal Advice: Consider consulting with a lawyer who specializes in car accidents. They can help you understand your rights and possibly negotiate on your behalf with the insurance companies.
Negotiate with Your Lender: Contact your loan servicer to discuss your situation. They may have options for payment plans or other assistance to help you manage the loan while you sort this out.
Explore Other Options: Depending on your situation, you could also explore filing a small claims case against the driver if you have enough evidence that she was at fault. However, it’s essential to weigh the costs and benefits of that route.
Stay in Touch with the Insurance Companies: Keep a record of all communications and be persistent about following up with the insurance companies to ensure your claim is being addressed appropriately.
Navigating insurance issues can be complicated, so having documented evidence and professional advice can be very helpful as you move forward. Good luck, and I hope you find a resolution soon!